Rabbits are not as popular as cats or dogs as pets, but they can become affectionate when provided with a loving home.

Bunnies are often seen as timid or distant animals because of their place on the food chain. Even most household pets would see them as prey in the wild.

When you give rabbits a chance to socialize, they become playful. As you gain its trust, you’ll see each unique personality begin to shine.

It can take some time for all rabbits to trust people, but some breeds tend to be more affectionate than others.

What’s the Most Affectionate Rabbit Breed?

The Jersey Wooly rabbit is the most affectionate rabbit breed. It is considered a dwarf size because of its weight and physical dimensions. It likes to be cuddled, and the fluffy coat is long and soft, attracting people to want to pick one up for hugs and pets. It is docile, quiet, and intelligent.

Most rabbits are naturally affectionate and friendly. It’s a trait that you see because of the communal nature of this animal.

As rabbits get older, they become aware of their status as prey. Since virtually anything could be a predator, they become timid and nervous.

If a rabbit wasn’t socialized as part of their upbringing, this behavior becomes even more enhanced. When they need to fend for themselves at an early age, they learn to survive by seeking cover in protected areas while remaining alone.

It is entirely possible for some rabbits to be friendly from the moment they meet you. Many Jersey Wooly rabbits are this way.

Some need a few hours to get used to being around someone new. Others need a few days or weeks to become comfortable with their new environment. If you have a shy bunny, it might take even longer.

When you can stay patient and kind when interacting with a rabbit, you’ll find that most will eventually come around to want snuggles.

Do Rabbits Show Affection Like Cats or Dogs?

Domesticated rabbits lived a different life than most domesticated cats and dogs over the past two centuries.

Humans chose to share their homes with cats and dogs. That decision created symbiotic relationships where companionship and care became the primary elements of this structure. There are always exceptions to this rule, which we sometimes see when these animals attack their owners or others.

Rabbits had a different existence. Most of them were raised to be food or for their fur.

They were already at the lower end of the food chain, so the domestication process essentially reinforced this behavior. The average spends most of its day worrying about what might happen to it.

The average cat worries about naps and an empty food bowl, while the typical dog wants to play, take a walk, and have the comfort of a pack.

Even today, most rabbits are kept in outside enclosures while other pets get to spend their days inside.

If someone keeps a bunny away from social contact, it will not develop any trust in its owner. Going out to feed one twice per day or giving it the occasional pet isn’t usually enough to develop a relationship.

What Are the Signs That a Rabbit Likes Me?

Bunnies can do lots of cute things when they finally start to trust you. Here are some of the behaviors to watch for when interacting with them.

• Circling Around Your Feet. Many rabbits will hop around you when they trust you. It can be at a rapid pace or slow and steady. Some will even try to go between your legs while walking. It’s a lot like coming home to see a dog give you a full body wiggle.
• Lap Time. If a bunny decides to jump into your lap without an invitation, it means you’ve earned their trust. Petting and cuddling during this time can help to increase your bond.
• Binkies. A “binky” is a specific rabbit behavior. It occurs when the animal takes a massive jump, twists its body and head in the air, and kicks out the rear legs. You’ll only see this reaction when bunnies are excited and happy. It’s often followed by uncontrolled scampering.
• Laying Near You. Some rabbits don’t like sitting in a lap because it makes them feel exposed. An alternative is lying next to you. When this happens, you might even hear them start to purr, much like a cat.

What Happens When a Bunny Doesn’t Like Me?

All rabbits feel scared. Some learn to overcome this feeling when you’re around, but that doesn’t mean the feeling disappears.

You can have a bunny that wants to snuggle one minute, then show different behaviors that suggest you’re unlikeable.

The most common behavior you’ll see in this category is tooth grinding. When a bunny gets irritated, the teeth grinding begins. You see this happen when picking them up during times they’d rather be left alone.

Rabbits also grind their teeth when they experience pain.

Thumping feet is another sign of distress from rabbits. You’ll see this issue occur when a threat is sensed, or there is something that causes disapproval in the environment.

Some rabbits thump with one foot, while others use both their rear feet.

When thumping is excessive or constant, there could be a physical symptom causing stress that your veterinarian should review.

The other sign that a rabbit isn’t happy involves flattened ears. Most people see this reaction when a bunny wants some love and doesn’t get it.

Why Does My Rabbit Flip Its Food Dish?

Rabbits love getting food, so why do some decide to flip over their dishes after getting their meal?

This behavior is caused by boredom. If you didn’t get a chance to spend any time with your bunny during the day, you might see the food dish flip happen that night.

Showing frustration during this time will amplify the behavior. Try to take a deep breath, show your bunny that you care, and you’ll typically resolve the problem within a few minutes.

If your rabbit runs away after this behavior, it is likely in a bad mood. It’s usually better to let a bunny come to you after they’ve calmed down instead of trying to force an interaction.

What Other Rabbits Are Affectionate and Friendly?

Outside of the Jersey Wooly rabbit, other affectionate and friendly species include the Mini Lop, the Holland Lop, the Lionhead rabbit, and the Harlequin rabbit. They’re great with kids or adults, forming bonds with humans easily because they love getting extra care and attention.

Rabbits have always been part of our home. We keep them inside, and they’re trained to use a litter box like cats.

I’ve found that grooming your bunny is the ticket to reaching its heart. When you clip the nails, comb the fur, and offer the occasional bath, you’re meeting the animal’s needs in ways that engender trust.

I also like having a small house inside for the rabbits to use for sleeping. When there is a safe place that won’t have disturbances, you’ll have a more peaceful home.

If your rabbit seems to get angry around the same time each day, it’s probably a food-related issue. Bunnies hate it when their meals are late! You’ll need to offer extra love and support to help them overcome this feeling.

Rabbits can be lots of fun to have at home. When you have an affectionate breed, the magic that comes from some cuddles can be a life-changing experience.